HNC Aeronautical Engineering for England (HTQ)

The HNC Aeronautical Engineering for England (HTQ) is an undergraduate-level qualification designed to provide a strong technical foundation for learners seeking a career in the aeronautical and aerospace engineering sector. The course is practical and industry-focused, combining academic study with real-world engineering applications.

It is recognised by employers and higher education providers and is aligned to national occupational standards for engineering, supporting progression into employment or further study. Typically studied full-time over one year or part-time over two years, the HNC develops core engineering knowledge, practical skills and professional behaviours required for technical and operational roles within the aeronautical engineering industry.

You will study a combination of core and specialist units that provide a broad introduction to engineering alongside focused aeronautical engineering knowledge. The HNC consists of 120 credits at Level 4.
Core units (mandatory):

• Engineering DesigN
• Engineering Mathematics
• Managing a Professional Engineering Project (Pearson-set unit)

Specialist aeronautical units (mandatory):

• Aircraft Aerodynamics
• Aircraft Electrical Power and Distribution Systems
• Airframe Mechanical Systems
• Composite Materials for Aerospace Applications
• Turbine Rotary Wing Mechanical and Flight Systems

These units develop your understanding of aircraft systems, materials, aerodynamics, engineering mathematics and professional engineering practice, while also building transferable skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, communication and independent learning.

Acceptance onto the HNC Aeronautical Engineering for England (HTQ) course will be subject to applicants meeting the following criteria:

• A minimum of 32 UCAS points that are from relevant fields (such as level 3s or A-levels in science-based subjects) or 64 UCAS points from unrelated subject areas.

• A GCSE in Maths (or the equivalent level 2 or higher qualification) at grade 4 or higher (formerly a C).

• You will need to demonstrate the ability to study in English, at a standard equivalent to attaining a GCSE English with a minimum grade 3 (formerly a D). Alternatively, you may be asked to write and email to the team a short piece of writing, to demonstrate sufficient literacy.

Applicants who do not meet the standard entry criteria but who have other qualifications or related work experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis on their individual merits and offers can vary. An interview or other diagnostic assessment may be used to determine eligibility for entry.

Care Leavers or Young Carers

We want students from all backgrounds to have the opportunity to go to University. If you have spent three months or more in local authority care OR are a young carer, you will be eligible for a contextual offer. This is a grade reduction of 1-A Level grade below our standard entry requirements. For example, a standard offer of CCC, would become CCD. MMM at Level 3 Extended Diploma would become MMP. To apply we advise that you tick the box on your UCAS application which identifies you have spent time in care and to help identify you as eligible for our contextual offer.

Assessment is entirely coursework-based, with no formal written examinations. You will be assessed through a range of internally set assignments, which may include:

• Practical tasks and engineering investigations
• Written technical reports
• Projects and case studies
• Presentations and professional discussions

Assignments are graded using clear criteria at Pass, Merit or Distinction level. One unit is set by Pearson to ensure national consistency, while all other units are assessed through centre-devised assignments.

Assessment is supported by formative feedback throughout the course to help you develop and improve your work.

The learning environment and facilities include lecture theatres, classrooms, technology suites, laboratories and workshops, the library and skills labs, small group rooms and quiet zones. Learning methods will vary according to the programme of study but will include lectures and tutorials. In addition, seminars, field trips, role-play or scenario activities, laboratory and workshop practical demonstrations, guest lectures, discussions and debates all contribute to the learning experience to support the acquisition of subject specific skills and knowledge and the development of transferable and employment related skills.

You should typically expect to have around 21 contact hours per week if you are studying full time. In addition, you will have timetabled meetings with your pastoral tutor to discuss issues on a one-to-one basis.  

You will be taught by an experienced teaching team whose expertise and knowledge are closely matched to the content of the modules on the course. 

On successful completion of the HNC Aeronautical Engineering for England (HTQ) you could progress to:

• Employment in roles such as Aeronautical Engineering Technician, Aerospace Engineering Technician or Aircraft Systems Technician
• Progression to the Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) in Aeronautical Engineering (HTQ)
• Further study at university, with many institutions recognising the HNC for entry (often with advanced standing) onto related degree programmes

The qualification provides a strong platform for career progression within the aerospace and aviation engineering sector or for continued academic study at higher levels.

Fees

Studying for a degree is not as expensive as you think – especially if you stay local. There are no upfront fees to pay if you take out a Tuition Fee Loan from Student Finance England. 

Financial support

There is a range of financial support available to you, including generous support from the College.

Additional costs 

There may be additional costs to consider that are not included in the tuition fees. These costs can vary based on your course and personal choices. 

There are some general additional course costs to consider that can apply to all courses: